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A fascinating four-part series that goes behind the closed doors of the Australian Art Auction world to meet the key players who buy and sell art in the ferociously competitive art scene.

Two international houses – Sotheby’s and Christies – have dominated the Australian art auction market until the recent rise of brash newcomer on the block, Deutscher-Menzies. The Australian-owned art auction house was set up in 1998 by local racing identity Rod Menzies and former art dealer Chris Deutscher. Art House follows Christies’ and Deutscher-Menzies as they battle for market share.

We meet the auctioneers, dealers, vendors, collectors and new investment buyers who inhabit the complex art world where the buying and selling of art has become a delicate mix of commerce and aesthetic sensibilities. 2003 looks to be a new high in the art world, fed by ferocious competition among hungry auction houses in search of stock and buyers and dealers keen to acquire art for love, money or both.

But can the market sustain three big auction houses? When will the bubble burst? And how will Australian owned Deutscher-Menzies go against international giant Christie’s?

Ep 1 – Playing the Game

Ep 2 – Thrill of the Chase

Ep 3 – Art for Art’s Sake

Ep 4 – The Auction

Art House is suitable for senior secondary students of: English, Art, Economics, Australian Studies and Business Studies. See .pdf format study guide for ideas on using this Art House series in the classroom.